Veg-based foodie site Yum Universe (YU) is turning one on August 12, and they're celebrating with a birthday-themed contest, which involves creating a plant-based, party-themed, whole foods recipe. To me, birthdays are always worth a little extra effort in the dessert department...

With the onslaught of "get healthy" books and product advertisements these days, it's no wonder we're constantly scrutinizing our own and each other's daily lifestyle choices. It often comes down to having the "perfect" diet—one that makes you glow, keeps you thin, gives you strength and energy, and is healthy and sustainable.

In the spirit of easy, no-bake summer treats, this raw macaroon recipe is made simply by dehydrating a mixture of dried coconut, dates, agave nectar and coconut butter, along with whatever flavourings you prefer.

I love all kinds of fruit and, for the most part, I don't discriminate between them. I'll eat fruit when it's at its best, local and in season, and sometimes even when it's not, and so you can imagine how happy I was to see fruit being used in a number of entries to...

I hope all of you in Canada or the US enjoyed a lovely long weekend. Mine was full of sunshine, long walks, family and ice cream sandwiches! After the final entries rolled in, Lisa and I spent Saturday morning studying the posts and scoring each recipe against the judging criteria.